Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy

What is Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy?

A fast-acting anesthetic that, in low (sub-anesthetic) doses, is used to treat depression and other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and addiction. While this medication is officially approved as an anesthetic, its use for mental health treatment is considered “off-label” despite growing research supporting its effectiveness.

How Does Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Work?

Psychedelics are used as a catalyst for change in psychotherapy, helping to create rapid shifts in mood and thinking, often within hours, providing an opportunity for deeper transformations through therapy.

1. Preparation Phase:
In this phase, your therapist will work with you to explore your mental health concerns and begin implementing evidence-based therapies aimed at your personal goals and intentions.

2. Psychedelic Treatment Phase:
During the treatment, a low-dose anesthetic induces a temporary shift in consciousness, influencing emotions and thoughts. In this altered,  psychedelic state, the therapist helps unlock your innate healing potential. The session concludes with integrating insights from the experience. Psychedelic sessions typically last between 1.5 to 3 hours.

3. Integration Phase:
Over the next 1-3 days, you may continue to feel positive changes in mood and thinking. Psychedelics often reduce suicidal thoughts and negative rumination rapidly. In this phase, you and your therapist will work together to apply the insights from the session to your daily life, fostering lasting changes in thinking and behavior.

How Many Treatment Sessions Are Needed?

Psychedelic sessions are typically held 1-2 times per week, with an initial treatment plan spanning 4-6 weeks. While some people may require additional sessions, many experience significant improvements early on.

What Are the Side Effects of Psychedelic Treatment?

As with any medication, Psychedelics may cause side effects. These are usually short-lived, as the drug exits the body within a few hours. Common side effects include nausea, dissociation, headaches, and a temporary increase in blood pressure. Occasionally, difficult emotions may arise during treatment, but these do not diminish the effectiveness of the therapy. While there is some potential for addiction, it is significantly lower than substances like alcohol, cannabis, or cocaine. Continuous, daily use can lead to bladder issues, which is why psychedelic treatment is administered in a safe clinical environment with professional supervision.

Why Choose CMAP Health for Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy?

The Centre for Mental and Psychological Health (CMAP) is not a corporate chain or spa aiming to profit from the growing popularity of psychedelic treatments. CMAP Health is led by seasoned mental health professionals with extensive experience in public health and a proven track record in evidence-based mental health treatments. We are committed to mental health care, supported by years of teaching, training, and delivering successful outcomes, which are measured and tracked to ensure effectiveness. Every referral to our ketamine clinic undergoes a thorough assessment, where all treatment options are carefully considered. We also offer Psychedelic treatment in combination with other evidence-based psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy and EMDR.

Want to Learn More?

If you are interested in exploring this treatment for yourself or a family member, click here to send us a message and schedule a call. If you are a physician or nurse practitioner looking to refer a patient, click here for our online or fax referral forms.